Wellness Retreats in the Caribbean

You worked hard to get into the best shape of your life on your wedding day — from juicing to CrossFit to Zumba classes — and you did it. You looked smoking hot in that gorgeous dress. You certainly don’t want to let things slide now, even if you’re due for a little bit of pampering in one of the most beautiful honeymoon spots in the world. You and your love can stay on the fitness path and relax at the same time at these blissfully romantic Caribbean wellness retreats.

Viceroy Anguilla

Anguilla is just 16 miles long with a population of only 15,000 people. This gem in the eastern Caribbean has long been a destination for experienced travelers who want an off-the-radar experience, but with all the amenities and services of a more visited island. At your first glimpse of the curving beaches and turquoise water, the stress and strain of wedding planning will simply melt away. Let the restorative journey begin at this spectacular 166-room resort lying on a stone outcropping and bracketed by two white-sand beaches. The Spa at Viceroy Anguilla is one of the best in the Caribbean, a two-story villa with its own outdoor pool where fitness classes and treatments focus on holistic wellness, integrating “breath, beauty and balance.” Based on this philosophy, the spa has debuted a trilogy treatment that includes a three-step massage with essential oils and silk veils, creating an aura of peaceful harmony. The spa has devised other customized therapies and procedures as well, in addition to massages and body polishes. The earth and air ritual begins by opening your chakras and burning incense and sage and ends with a hot stone massage. Also offered are several types of yoga to fit your needs, including restorative, vinyasa and simple meditation. This chic resort is also as dedicated to your wellness journey as it is to the environment, with several eco-initiatives such as using biodegradable laundering products, low-flow faucets and eco-friendly spa products. Room rates start at $800 a night.

Photo courtesy of Viceroy Hotels and Resorts

The BodyHoliday, St. Lucia 

Home to a green-flanked volcano, surf-kissed beaches and the iconic gros and petit piton peaks, St. Lucia is a honeymoon haven. Sulfur Springs park in Soufrière brings tourists from around the world to slather on volcanic mud and bathe in the healing waters of the steaming pools, while a rainforest hike through the jungle takes visitors close to the natural fora and fauna of the island. This 155-room resort on Cariblue Beach on the northwest tip of the island was one of the very first in St. Lucia to focus solely on health and wellness, and is an award-winning destination spa and wellness center. this all-inclusive property features up to 12 included treatments such as body scrubs, massage, aromatherapy and facials that are based on ayurvedic, Balinese and other traditions. Guests are provided with a specialized treatment schedule, receiving one per day. Additionally guests can arrange hydrotherapy and oxygen facials, lymphatic drainage and sinus treatments, restorative sleep and weight-loss programs and even osteotherapy for those that may have connective tissue ailments. The resort also runs a BodyScience program that you begin up to eight weeks prior to arrival with home tests and DNA samples. The staff analyzes your biochemistry to determine imbalances that can be corrected during your stay through meal plans and exercise. Room rates start at $531 a night, up to 12 all-inclusive treatments.

Photo courtesy of Jade Mountain

Photo courtesy of The BodyHoliday

Eden Rock, St. Barths

Located in the French West indies, this hilly, eight-mile-long island has been frequented by the rich and famous since the days of Old hollywood. Its chic reputation and high-end hotels make it a playground for socialites, but it’s also known for a sporty tradition of fitness. Each summer St. Barths hosts a five-week beachside Yoga Camp in Gustavia, plus a long list of water aerobics, hiking and other wellness events for all fitness levels. Eden Rock, with only 34 guest accommodations, fits right into the St. Barths tradition of exclusivity and wellness. A dedicated wellness coach will consult with you to determine your best nutrition and exercise plan. The gym is fully equipped with resistance machines and free weights, cardio equipment and punching bags, and yoga classes are held on the spa deck or on stand-up paddleboards in the ocean. Spa treatments such as peels with coconut oil and papaya, warm shell body massages and body masks made with clay and pineapple mousse are done in the spa or outdoors on the spa deck or beach, making this a truly tranquil getaway. The staff even delivers after-sun treatments of a fresh papaya peel or a bath with scented oils, complete with DIY instructions on self-application. Room rates start at $962 a night.

Photo courtesy of Eden Rock

Photo courtesy of Eden Rock

Blue Waters Resort and Spa, Antigua 

Climb Antigua’s highest peak, Mount Obama (yes, named after the U.S. President) or sail to sister island Barbuda to check out its bird sanctuary and abandoned caves, and you’ll quickly notice that Antigua and peacefulness go hand-in-hand. Blue Waters Resort is a classically manicured retreat with green lawns and tropical flowers that attract the local hummingbirds spread out over 17 acres along the crystal-clear Caribbean. It features 101 rooms and suites, seven pools and a tennis court, plus complimentary watersports so you can head out on a kayak or pedal boat or go windsurfing or snorkeling. The serene spa changes its menu seasonally and features Elemis products. Restoring balance here is a breeze with signature spa treatments such as healing stone therapy using warmed basalt stones infused with aromatic oils. Other stress relievers include coconut and milk wraps, muscle melt massages, quartz facials and other mind and body detoxes. The two-person, two-day Wellness Escape packages featuring healthy food selections and well- being treatments are perfect for couples looking for a healthy kick to their honeymoon. Room rates start at $599 a night all-inclusive.

Photo courtesy of Blue Waters Resort and Spa

Photo courtesy of Blue Waters Resort and Spa

Photo courtesy of Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority